Dim Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dim
[dɪm ]
Definitions
Context #1 | Adjective
low light conditions
dim means not bright or clear. It can also refer to a lack of intelligence or understanding.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The room was dimly lit by a single candle.
- She had a dim memory of the event.
- He's not the brightest bulb in the box, a bit dim if you ask me.
Context #2 | Verb
make less intense
dim as a verb means to make less intense or bright. It can also refer to making someone feel less confident or enthusiastic.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She dimmed the lights in the theater.
- His harsh criticism dimmed her enthusiasm for the project.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In poetry, dimly lit settings often evoke mystery and melancholy, enhancing emotional depth.
- Authors frequently use dim lighting in descriptions to symbolize confusion or inner turmoil.
- Famous works like Shakespeare's plays utilize dim imagery to set the mood or foreshadow events.
Psychology
- Dim environments can affect mood and cognition, often leading to feelings of relaxation or sadness.
- Research shows that bright lighting enhances alertness, while dim lighting can provoke introspection.
- Studies suggest that people feel more private or secure in dimly lit spaces, influencing social behavior.
Technology
- In modern lighting design, dimmable LEDs allow users to adjust light intensity for various moods.
- Smart home technology now lets you control dimming via voice or mobile apps, adding convenience.
- Dim light settings are often featured in presentations, enhancing focus on the displayed content.
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'dim your lights' appears in songs, often associated with romance and intimate moments.
- Movies often use dim lighting to build suspense, making audiences feel more engaged and tense.
- Famous films often symbolize danger or mystery through dimly lit scenes, enhancing dramatic impact.
Origin of 'dim'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'dym,' meaning 'to be or become dark.'
- It is related to words in other languages, like the German 'dimm' and Dutch 'dimmer,' all connoting low light.
- Its use as a verb meaning to reduce brightness dates back to the 14th century.
The word 'dim' has Old English origins, coming from the word 'dimm,' which means dark or gloomy. Over time, the word evolved to also represent a lack of brightness or intelligence. It has been used in English literature for centuries to describe both physical and metaphorical dimness.